12 Winter Vacation Spots in North America That Are Stunning This Time of Year

Where is Bayfield, Wisconsin and what about it could be so appealing? Well, this far northern town (population 473 as of 2017) is home to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. During really cold winters (it has to be consistently cold for a long stretch), the water freezes over enough to form a path to the ice caves off Lake Superior. You can just walk right out on the water to explore these wondrous sea caves. There are a lot of factors involved to make sure the caves are safe enough to visit — they’re not necessarily open every year — so check weather and conditions with the National Park Service before you plan a visit to this far northern destination.

Few places offer both beaches and skiing, but Lake Tahoe is one of them. This gorgeous mountain town on the edge of California and Nevada knows how to make the most of each season, and it definitely won’t disappoint in winter. During this time of year, you can pretty much have your pick of winter sports, including skiing, skating, snowshoeing, and more. It’s no wonder this freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains regularly makes travel lists for beautiful places to visit. It really is a nature lover’s paradise pretty much year-round.

Canadians definitely know how to make the most of winter. You could pretty much throw a dart at a map of Canada and anywhere you land would be a great winter experience. Quebec City should be on the top of your list, especially if you want to practice your French. While you’re there, check out Old Quebec. You’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into a European village, complete with cobblestone streets. Throughout this northeastern city, you’ll find plenty of outdoor ice skating rinks, snowshoeing opportunities, and even the chance to ride on a dogsled. If you have time and want to extend you winter enjoyment, drive down to Montreal or even dip into the United States through Maine. The scenery can’t be beat.

Like Canadians, the Minnesotans really know how to maximize winter. Duluth is about two and a half hours north of Minneapolis, and you’re sure to get a warm welcome from the locals. While you’re here, you’ll find plenty of places to go cross country skiing, try ice climbing, sign up for a fat bike tour, and even try skijoring, the Norwegian sport where a person is pulled on skis by a horse, dog, or motor vehicle. You don’t want to leave town without crossing that one off of your bucket list.

You may not have heard of this rural town in New York before, but it’s the home of the Mohonk Mountain House. This is one of those places you have to see for yourself at least once. The Victorian castle is located in the Hudson Valley surrounded by beautiful wilderness. It truly looks like a picture from a fairy tale, and it’s only a couple of hours outside of New York City. This beautiful castle is worth the drive alone in the winter, especially when there’s a dusting of snow across the valley. But if you can justify it and afford it, definitely book a night at the castle. They have great dining, a spa, and lots of activities on site. It’s worth a weekend winter escape.

If you ski and snowboard, then Aspen is definitely on your bucket list. It’s world famous for being a go-to ski town. It’s not so much a beginner’s ski area, but once you have a handle on the basics, it’ll be a real treat. You’ll love zooming down the slopes, knowing world champions and Olympic athletes have done the same. If skiing just isn’t your thing, don’t worry: This town is still a great winter destination with wonderful dining, art, and nature throughout the area. It’s a perfect place to go if you have both skiers and non-skiers in your party — there really is something for everyone.

Just outside of Yellowstone National Park is the beautiful town of Big Sky, Montana. This area claims to have the “biggest skiing in America,” so if you’re looking for some challenges, you’ll want to get there at some point. Big Sky and the surrounding area might have some of the best winter scenery in North America, too. Pictures really don’t do justice to the fresh air and open land. If you’re up for adventure, try winter ziplining in Big Sky: Floating over the heads of skiers is an experience like no other. You can also find plenty of other winter activities, from the usual snowshoeing and sledding to the more adventurous winter fly fishing.

Go dog mushing. Experience the hot springs. Rent a snowmobile. Sign up for ice fishing. And then experience the best winter activity of all every single night —viewing the northern lights. Hands down, this is one of the best places in North America to catch a glimpse of these colorful, dancing lights in the night sky. To track your best chance of seeing them, follow along on an aurora forecaster website. Many people might think of Alaska as a summer destination, making the most of the sunshine and long days. But winter is pretty amazing, too.

Utah Olympic Park should be high on your list if you have a trip planned to Park City. This sports park was built solely for the 2002 Winter Olympics, and it’s still active and full of life today. You can check out the museum, have a bobsled experience, or watch the training and winter events. Then head on over to Salt Lake City where there is plenty more fun to be had!

This is another western city that has some of the most classic, iconic winter activities. You can find plenty of trails for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing. Jackson Hole is also known for its aerial tram, which takes passengers on a beautiful scenic ride 10,000 feet high. Don’t forget how close you are to two great national parks, too. Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are both stunning in wintertime. Check out the winter tours — you’ll love the smaller crowds and beautiful landscapes.

While on the category of national parks, put Bryce Canyon on your list. This Utah national park is often underrated and receives fewer visitors than others in the state, but it’s a true hidden gem. When you look out on the park’s famous amphitheater, you’ll find hundreds of rock formations, called hoodoos. Now imagine this scene with a dusting of snow at sunrise, and it’s truly worth the drive. Even if the temperatures are cold, you’ll want to bundle up and head outside at night, too. You can’t beat a Milky Way sky on a clear night. Bryce, Utah is off the beaten path for most, so if you don’t like crowds or cities, then you’ll love this winter spot.

Rounding out this list is the small town of Estes Park, Colorado at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park. Just a short distance from Boulder and Denver, Estes Park is a great alternative to more traditional busy and touristy towns. They tout themselves as Colorado’s best winter secret, and you’ll find plenty of activities, festivals, and suggestions of what to do on the town’s website. Plan a trip here if you like adventure and want the opportunity to spot some winter wildlife.